US Coast Guard commissions fast response cutter Earl Cunningham in Alaska

August 15, 2025, by Aida Čučuk

The US Coast Guard has commissioned Earl Cunningham, the 59th fast response cutter (FRC) and the second of three FRCs to be homeported in Kodiak, Alaska.

The Sentinel-class FRCs, which are replacing the 1980s Island-class 110-foot patrol boats, reportedly possess 21st-century command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance equipment, with improved habitability and seakeeping.

As informed, the vessels can operate in diverse areas, including critical maritime border zones, to support law enforcement and alien interdiction operations.

It is understood that a total of 67 FRCs have been ordered to date to perform a multitude of missions that include drug and alien interdiction, joint international operations, and national defense of ports, waterways, and coastal areas.

In July 2025, US shipbuilder Bollinger Shipyards began contract negotiations with the US Coast Guard for the construction of at least ten additional FRCs.

Each FRC is named after an enlisted Coast Guard member recognized for notable service in the line of duty. The 59th cutter’s namesake, Earl Cunningham, was a World War I Army veteran as well as a Coast Guard member, born in Michigan in 1895.

Kevin E. Lunday, Acting Commandant of the Coast Guard, commented: “Commissioning Coast Guard Cutter Earl Cunningham strengthens our ability to control, secure and defend Alaska’s U.S. border and maritime approaches, protect resources vital to our economic prosperity, and respond to crises throughout the Aleutian Islands. This crew will honor the heroic legacy and selfless devotion to duty exemplified by Petty Officer Cunningham in the years ahead.”

To remind, the US Coast Guard accepted delivery of the FRC Earl Cunningham on March 6, 2025, in Key West, Florida.